Flash dryer and cleaning method

Abstract

To provide a flash dryer that can easily and thoroughly be cleaned.SOLUTION: The flash dryer dries a treating object by allowing the treating object to flow with drying gas. The flash dryer comprises a container, a lid, and a partition unit. The container comprises an opening for letting its inner space be exposed to the outside, and allows the treating object and the drying gas to flow in the inner space. The lid is provided in a manner capable of opening / closing the opening. The partition unit is disposed in the container to partition the inner space of the container so as to form a channel through which the treating object and the drying gas flow. The partition unit is detachably attached to the container or to the lid.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates primarily to flash dryers. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, flash dryers for drying objects to be treated have been known. Patent Document 1 discloses this type of flash dryer.

[0003] The flash dryer of Patent Document 1 includes a pair of plates and a partition plate. A spiral airflow passage for drying is formed between the pair of plates by the partition plate bent into a spiral shape. The material to be dried is dried while flowing through the airflow passage. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2000-304439 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] When using medicines as the material to be dried, the flash dryer (especially its interior) must be thoroughly cleaned before use. When drying various types of medicines in succession, cleaning must be performed each time the medicines are changed.

[0006] In general, in a flash dryer such as that in Patent Document 1, the partition plate is fixed to the plate. In the flow path space, generally, residues tend to accumulate at the attachment portion of the partition to the container. In the conventional configuration, it is time-consuming to remove the residues during cleaning.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a flash dryer which can be easily and thoroughly cleaned. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The problem to be solved by the present invention has been described above. Next, the means for solving this problem and the effects thereof will be described.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an air flow dryer having the following configuration. That is, this air flow dryer dries an object to be treated by circulating the object together with a drying gas. The air flow dryer comprises a container, a lid, and a partition. The container has an opening for exposing the internal space to the outside, and circulates the object to be treated and the drying gas in the internal space. The lid is provided on the container so that the opening can be opened and closed. The partition is disposed within the container and partitions the internal space of the container so as to form a flow path through which the object to be treated and the drying gas flow. The partition is disposed within the container and partitions the internal space of the container so as to form a flow path through which the object to be treated and the drying gas flow. Also for The lid Also for removal Possible Yes do.

[0010] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the following cleaning method is provided. That is, the subject of this cleaning method is an air flow dryer that includes a container, a lid, and a partition, and that circulates a workpiece together with a drying gas to dry the workpiece. The container has an opening for exposing the internal space to the outside, and circulates the workpiece and the drying gas in the internal space. The lid is provided so that the opening can be opened and closed. The partition is disposed within the container, and divides the internal space of the container so as to form a flow path through which the workpiece and the drying gas flow. The cleaning method includes a first step and a second step. In the first step, before The partition From the container and the lid In the second step, after the first step, at least one of the container and the lid is cleaned.

[0011] This allows the partition to be placed in the container. From the lid Once removed, the flash dryer can be easily and rigorously cleaned. Effect of the Invention

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a flash dryer that can be easily and thoroughly cleaned. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a formulation device to which a flash dryer according to a first embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Diagram 2] FIG. [Diagram 3] AA cross-sectional view of FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing the flash dryer in an open state. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a side view showing the interior of the flash dryer in an open state. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state in which the partition is removed when the flash dryer is in an open state. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of another example flash dryer. [Figure 8] (a) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line B in Fig. 6, (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line C in Fig. 6, and (c) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line D or E in Fig. 6. [Figure 9] FIG. 5 is a side view of a flash dryer according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line FF in FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing the flash dryer in an open state. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a side view showing the interior of the flash dryer in an open state. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a side view of the flash dryer according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line G-G in FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 4 is a plan view showing the flash dryer in an open state. [Figure 16] FIG. 4 is a side view showing the interior of the flash dryer in an open state. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is a view showing the state inside the flash dryer according to the first modified example in the open state. [Figure 18]13A is a diagram showing the state inside a flash dryer according to a second modified example when in an open state, and FIG. 13B is a diagram showing the state inside a flash dryer according to a third modified example when in an open state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, a first embodiment will be described. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a formulation device 3 to which an flash dryer 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0015] In this embodiment, the flash dryer 1 is applied to a formulation device 3. Note that the flash dryer according to the present invention can also be applied to devices for purposes other than formulation.

[0016] As shown in Fig. 1, the formulation device 3 includes a granulation section 5, a gas supply section 7, a drying section 9, a collection section 11, and a gas suction section 13. The granulation section 5 and the gas supply section 7 are each connected to the drying section 9 via a flow path. The drying section 9 is connected to the collection section 11 via a flow path. The collection section 11 is connected to the gas suction section 13 via a flow path. The flow path can be composed of, for example, a pipe.

[0017] The granulation unit 5 can process the supplied raw material into granules. The granulation unit 5 has a feeder 15, a binder supply unit 17, and a granulation device 19. The feeder 15 supplies the raw material to the granulation device 19. The binder supply unit 17 supplies the binder to the granulation device 19. The granulation device 19 generates granules (processed object) using the supplied raw material and binder.

[0018] The gas supply unit 7 can supply high-temperature gas (air) to the drying unit 9 side of the formulation device 3. The gas supply unit 7 has a blower 21 and a heater 23. The blower 21 sucks in outside air and sends it out. The heater 23 heats the gas sent from the blower 21. The heated gas flows toward the drying unit 9. Although outside air (air) is used as this gas, an inert gas such as nitrogen may also be used. The type of the heater 23 is not particularly limited.

[0019] The drying section 9 dries the granular material supplied from the granulating section 5 by using the high-temperature gas (drying gas) sent from the gas supplying section 7. A mixed fluid obtained by mixing the granular material from the granulating section 5 and the high-temperature gas from the gas supplying section 7 is sent to the drying section 9. The drying section 9 has a flash dryer 1. The granular material is dried while the mixed fluid flows through the flash dryer 1. The flash dryer 1 will be described in detail later.

[0020] The recovery section 11 can recover the granular material sent from the drying section 9 as a product. In this embodiment, the recovery section 11 has a cyclone 25 and a bag filter 27. The cyclone 25 separates the mixed fluid from the drying section 9 into granular material and gas. Of the mixed fluid, the granular material flows toward the discharge section 29, and the gas flows toward the bag filter 27. The powdered granular material from the cyclone 25 is discharged as a product at the discharge section 29. The bag filter 27 removes remaining fine powder from the gas from the cyclone 25. The gas from which the fine powder has been removed flows toward the gas suction section 13. The configuration of the recovery section 11 is not particularly limited. For example, the recovery section 11 may have only a bag filter without a cyclone.

[0021] The gas suction unit 13 can transfer the granular material together with the gas as a mixed fluid by sucking in the gas from the recovery unit 11 side. The gas suction unit 13 has a blower 31. The blower 31 sucks in the gas in the flow path on the recovery unit 11 side. The gas sucked by the blower 31 is discharged into the atmosphere.

[0022] Next, the flash dryer 1 of the drying section 9 will be described with reference to Fig. 2 to Fig. 7. Fig. 2 is a side view of the flash dryer 1. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a plan view showing the flash dryer 1 in an open state. Fig. 5 is a side view showing the interior of the flash dryer 1 in an open state. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing the state after the partition section 45 has been removed when the flash dryer 1 is in an open state. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of another example of a flash dryer.

[0023] 2, the flash dryer 1 has a first connection part 37 and a second connection part 39. The flash dryer 1 is connected to the granulation part 5 and the gas supply part 7 via the first connection part 37, and is connected to the collection part 11 via the second connection part. Note that the flash dryer 1 may be connected to the collection part 11 via the first connection part 37, and may be connected to the granulation part 5 and the gas supply part 7 via the second connection part 39.

[0024] As shown in FIGS. 3, 4, 5, and 6, the flash dryer 1 includes a container 41, a lid 43, a partition portion 45, and an outer shell portion 47.

[0025] The container 41 is formed to be hollow. The internal space of the container 41 can be exposed to the outside through the opening 51. The container 41 includes a plate-shaped base portion 53 and a cylindrical wall portion 55. The aforementioned opening portion 51 is provided on one axial side of the wall portion 55, and the base portion 53 is disposed on the other axial side of the wall portion 55. As a result, the base portion 53 forms the bottom of the concave container 41. In this embodiment, the container 41 is formed to be cylindrical with a bottom. The opening portion 51 and the bottom portion (base portion 53) are each formed to be circular. A mixed fluid can be circulated inside the container 41.

[0026] The lid body 43 is attached to the container 41 so as to be able to open and close the opening 51 of the container 41. The lid body 43 is able to close the opening 51. In this embodiment, the lid body 43 has a circular shape. The lid body 43 is rotatably attached to the container 41 via a hinge 57 on its outer periphery. The lid body 43 can move between a closed position facing the opening 51 of the container 41 and an open position separated from the container 41 by rotating with respect to the container 41. The closed position is shown in Figs. 2 and 3, and the open position is shown in Figs. 4 and 5, respectively.

[0027] By moving the lid body 43 to the closed position, the flash dryer 1 can be put into a closed state in which the opening 51 of the container 41 is closed. By moving the lid body 43 to the open position, the flash dryer 1 can be put into an open state in which the opening 51 of the container 41 is open.

[0028] The closed state of the flash dryer 1 can be maintained by fastening the container 41 and the lid 43 with a fastening member or the like. When the flash dryer 1 is in the closed state, the internal space of the container 41 is sealed off by the lid 43 closing the opening 51. Hereinafter, the internal space of the container 41 in the state where it is sealed off by the lid 43 may be referred to as a sealed space.

[0029] When the flash dryer 1 is in the closed state, if the fastening between the container 41 and the lid 43 is released, the lid 43 becomes movable relative to the container 41. Thus, the lid 43 can be moved to the open position to change the flash dryer 1 to an open state. When the flash dryer 1 is in the open state, the opening 51 of the container 41 is not blocked by the lid 43, and the internal space of the container 41 is exposed to the outside.

[0030] The partition 45 divides the internal space of the container 41 so as to form a flow path 59 through which the mixed fluid flows. The flow path 59 connects the first connection part 37 and the second connection part 39 within the container 41.

[0031] In this embodiment, the first connection part 37 functions as an inlet for the mixed fluid to the flow path 59 in the container 41, and is provided so as to protrude outward from the outer periphery (wall part 55) of the container 41. The second connection part 39 functions as an outlet for the mixed fluid from the flow path 59 in the container 41, and is provided so as to protrude outward from the center of the lid 43. Note that the second connection part 39 may be provided so as to protrude outward from the center of the container 41 instead of the lid 43.

[0032] The partition 45 is detachably attached to the container 41, specifically to its bottom (base 53). The partition 45 is composed of a long and narrow rectangular plate-like member. Hereinafter, the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the partition 45 may be referred to as the width direction. The dimension of the partition 45 in the width direction is approximately the same as the depth of the container 41. The depth of the container 41 can also be said to be the axial length from the opening 51 to the bottom of the container 41. The partition 45 is provided such that its width direction is along the axial direction of the container 41.

[0033] In this embodiment, the partition part 45 is arranged in a spirally bent state inside the container 41. One longitudinal end part of the partition part 45 and a part of the outer shell part 47 are connected to each other, and a flow path 59 is formed in a spiral shape inside the container 41.

[0034] The flow path 59 is a path through which the mixed fluid flows in the container 41. One end of the flow path 59 (the end on the upstream side in the direction in which the mixed fluid flows) is connected to the first connection part 37. The other end of the flow path 59 (the end on the downstream side in the direction in which the mixed fluid flows) is connected to the second connection part 39. The mixed fluid flows into the flow path 59 via the first connection part 37, flows through the flow path 59, and then flows out from the flow path 59 via the second connection part 39. When the flash dryer 1 is in a closed state, the flow path 59 is sealed by the lid 43. The flow path area of ​​the flow path 59 is approximately constant over the entire length in the direction in which the mixed fluid flows. The flow path area is appropriately determined in consideration of the flow rate of the mixed fluid, etc.

[0035] The outer shell portion 47 is provided so as to fit along the outer periphery (wall portion 55) of the container 41. The outer shell portion 47 is provided so as to surround the partition portion 45 inside the container 41 when the partition portion 45 is attached to the container 41. The outer shell portion 47 is configured separately from the partition portion 45. The outer shell portion 47 is disposed between the outer periphery (wall portion 55) of the container 41 and the partition portion 45 in the radial direction of the container 41, and determines the position of the outermost end of the flow path 59 formed inside the container 41. The outer shell portion 47 is fixed to the bottom (base portion 53) of the container 41.

[0036] With this configuration, during maintenance of the flash dryer 1, the lid 43 is moved to the open position to open the flash dryer 1, thereby making it possible to remove the partition 45 from the container 41, specifically from its bottom (base 53). That is, when the flash dryer 1 is in the open state, the internal space (flow path 59) of the container 41 is exposed to the outside. Therefore, the partition 45 can be removed from the container 41 and taken out to the outside of the container 41 through the opening 51.

[0037] By removing the partition 45 while the flash dryer 1 is in an open state (first step), an operator can clean the inside of the container 41 through the opening 51 so as to completely remove any residue remaining in the internal space of the container 41. Also, the partition 45 can be cleaned from outside the container 41 (second step). By such a cleaning method, the flash dryer 1 can be cleaned easily and thoroughly.

[0038] Furthermore, when the flash dryer 1 is used, the flow path 59 in the container 41 can be closed by moving the lid 43 to the closed position with the partition 45 attached to the container 41 to close the flash dryer 1. With the flow path 59 closed, the mixed fluid can be made to flow through the flow path 59 from the first connection part 37 to the second connection part 39. This allows the granular material contained in the mixed fluid to be dried.

[0039] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 3, when the lid 43 is in the closed state, an insulating layer (insulating portion) is formed for the flow path 59. The insulating layer is formed around the flow path 59. Specifically, the insulating layer includes a first insulating layer 75. The first insulating layer 75 is formed between the outer shell portion 47 and the outer periphery (wall portion 55) of the container 41 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the container 41 (the opening direction of the opening 51).

[0040] In this embodiment, the first insulating layer 75 is composed of air present in the enclosed space formed by the container 41, the outer shell 47, and the lid 43. The configuration of the first insulating layer 75 is not limited to that of this embodiment. For example, a fiber-based insulating material (glass wool, etc.) may be disposed in the first insulating layer 75. However, in this case, if granular material or the like adheres to the glass wool, cleaning becomes difficult, so it is preferable to completely seal the space of the first insulating layer 75 by an appropriate means such as full circumference welding. In Figures 3, 5, 6, etc., the space for insulation is indicated by dashed hatching. The mixed fluid does not flow through the space indicated by the dashed hatching.

[0041] Since the flow path 59 can be kept warm by the first insulating layer 75, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the temperature of the high-temperature gas contained in the mixed fluid. As a result, it is possible to improve the drying performance in the flash dryer 1 (drying section 9).

[0042] As shown in FIG. 7, the insulating layer may include a second insulating layer 77 in addition to the first insulating layer 75. In this case, the second insulating layer 77 is formed on both sides of the internal space of the container 41 in the axial direction. This can further enhance the heat retention effect of the flow path 59. The second insulating layer 77 may be disposed on only one side of the internal space of the container 41, but is preferably disposed on both sides. The second insulating layer 77 is preferably disposed so as to cover the entire internal space of the container 41 when viewed in the axial direction of the container 41.

[0043] Next, a configuration for attaching the partition part 45 to the container 41 will be described with reference to Fig. 6 and Fig. 8. Fig. 8(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line B in Fig. 6. Fig. 8(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line C in Fig. 6. Fig. 8(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line D or E in Fig. 6.

[0044] The partition 45 can be removed from the container 41, specifically from its bottom (base 53). In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 6, a first protrusion 65, a second protrusion 67, and a third protrusion 69 are provided on the base 53 of the container 41. The first protrusion 65, the second protrusion 67, and the third protrusion 69 are each disposed at a predetermined position on the base 53 of the container 41 so that the partition 45 can be positioned with respect to the base 53 of the container 41.

[0045] The first protrusion 65 is disposed at approximately the center of the base portion 53 of the container 41. As shown in FIG. 8(a), the first protrusion 65 is provided so as to protrude in the axial direction of the container 41. In this embodiment, the first protrusion 65 is formed in a round bar shape. The first protrusion 65 protrudes an appropriate length in the axial direction of the container 41. This protrusion length L1 is smaller than the depth dimension of the container 41. Therefore, the first protrusion 65 is accommodated in the container 41 when the partition portion 45 is attached to the container.

[0046] The first protruding portion 65 can be fitted into a cylindrical portion 71 provided at the other longitudinal end of the partition portion 45. As shown in FIG. 8(b), the cylindrical portion 71 has an appropriate length L2 in the axial direction of the partition portion 45. This length L2 is approximately the same as or smaller than the dimension of the partition portion 45 in the width direction. In addition, the length L2 is approximately the same as or larger than the protruding length L1 of the first protruding portion 65.

[0047] The second protrusion 67 and the third protrusion 69 can support the first or second portion of the partition 45, respectively. In this embodiment, the second protrusion 67 and the third protrusion 69 have substantially the same configuration, and can sandwich the first or second portion of the partition 45 from both sides in the thickness direction, as shown in FIG. 8(c). The first protrusion 65, the second protrusion 67, and the third protrusion 69 are disposed at different phases from each other with respect to the center of the container 41. The first protrusion 65, the second protrusion 67, and the third protrusion 69 are disposed at appropriate intervals.

[0048] With this configuration, with the partition part 45 removed from the container 41 as shown in Fig. 6, the cylindrical part 71 of the partition part 45 is fitted into the first protruding part 65, and the first and second parts of the partition part 45 are supported by the second protruding part 67 and the third protruding part 69, respectively. This allows the partition part 45 to be attached to the container 41 at an appropriate position as shown in Fig. 5. The partition part 45 can also be removed from the container 41 by following the steps in reverse.

[0049] As described above, the flash dryer 1 of this embodiment dries granular material (material to be treated) by circulating the granular material together with high-temperature gas (drying gas). The flash dryer 1 includes a container 41, a lid 43, and a partition 45. The container 41 has an opening 51 for exposing the internal space to the outside, and circulates a mixed fluid (material to be treated and drying gas) in the internal space. The lid 43 is provided on the container 41 so that the opening 51 can be opened and closed. The partition 45 is disposed within the container 41 and partitions the internal space of the container 41 so as to form a flow path 59 through which the mixed fluid flows. The partition 45 is detachably attached to the container 41.

[0050] This allows the partition 45 to be removed from the container 41, making it possible to easily and thoroughly clean the flash dryer 1 (particularly the container 41 and the partition 45). Also, the long flow path 59 can be compactly arranged inside the container 41.

[0051] In the flash dryer 1 of the present embodiment, a first insulating layer 75 and a second insulating layer 77 are provided so as to cover the outside of the flow path 59.

[0052] This provides a heat retention effect for the flow path 59. This makes it possible to suppress a decrease in the temperature of the high-temperature gas contained in the mixed fluid. As a result, the drying performance of the flash dryer 1 (drying section 9) can be improved.

[0053] In the flash dryer 1 of the present embodiment, the first insulating layer 75 is disposed on the outer side of the flow path 59 in a direction perpendicular to the opening direction of the opening 51.

[0054] This makes it possible to obtain a heat retention effect for the flow passage 59 with a compact configuration.

[0055] In the flash dryer 1 of the present embodiment, the second insulating layer 77 is disposed on the outer side with respect to the flow path 59 in a direction parallel to the opening direction of the opening portion 51.

[0056] This makes it possible to obtain a heat retention effect for the flow passage 59 with a compact configuration.

[0057] Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9 to Fig. 12. Fig. 9 is a side view of the flash dryer 1s according to this embodiment. Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line FF in Fig. 9. Fig. 11 is a plan view showing the flash dryer 1s in an open state. Fig. 12 is a side view showing the interior of the flash dryer 1s in an open state. In the description of this embodiment, the same reference numerals are used in the drawings to designate members that are the same as or similar to those in the previous embodiment, and descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0058] The flash dryer 1s according to this embodiment differs from the flash dryer 1 according to the first embodiment in that it is configured as a two-layer type. In the flash dryer 1s, a first flow path 59A and a second flow path 59B are provided so as to be continuous in a double-layered state as a flow path 59. This makes it possible to realize a flow path 59 that is longer than that of the first embodiment.

[0059] As shown in Fig. 9, the flash dryer 1s has a first connection part 37 and a second connection part 39. As shown in Fig. 10, 11, and 12, the flash dryer 1s includes two containers 41, two partition parts 45, two outer shell parts 47, and a separator (inner lid body) 81.

[0060] In this embodiment, of the two containers 41, one container 41 has a function similar to that of the lid 43 of the first embodiment. The two containers 41 are connected to each other by a hinge 57, and one can rotate relative to the other. The other container 41 can be moved to an open position or a closed position relative to the one container 41, similar to the lid 43 of the first embodiment.

[0061] When the other container 41 moves to the open position, the flash dryer 1s is in the open state shown in Figures 11 and 12, and the internal space of each container 41 can be exposed to the outside. When the other container 41 moves to the closed position, the flash dryer 1s is in the closed state shown in Figures 9 and 10, and the internal space of each container 41 can be sealed off.

[0062] The two containers 41 have substantially the same configuration, except for some parts. Specifically, a partition part 45 and an outer shell part 47 are arranged in one container 41 to form a first flow path 59A. A partition part 45 and an outer shell part 47 are arranged in the other container 41 to form a second flow path 59B. A first connection part 37 is provided on the outer periphery of one container 41 so as to protrude outward, and is connected to the first flow path 59A. A second connection part 39 is provided on the outer periphery of the other container 41 so as to protrude outward, and is connected to the second flow path 59B.

[0063] Here, the partitioning parts 45 are detachably attached to each container 41. The configuration for attaching the partitioning parts 45 in this embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment. However, the partitioning parts 45 may be attached to the containers 41 in a configuration different from that in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the configuration for attaching the partitioning parts 45 to the containers 41 may be the same for the two partitioning parts 45 or may be different.

[0064] The separator 81 is provided at a joining portion where the openings 51 of the two containers 41 are joined together in the flash dryer 1s in a closed state. The separator 81 is disposed so as to separate the internal spaces of the two containers 41 except for a hole 83 described below.

[0065] The separator 81 is detachably attached to the opening 51 of each container 41. In this embodiment, the separator 81 is configured of a disk-shaped member. When the separator 81 closes the opening 51 of each container 41, the first flow paths 59A and the second flow paths 59B in each of the two containers 41 are blocked. When the flash dryer 1s is in an open state, the separator 81 can be removed from the two containers 41 as shown in FIG. 11. When the separator 81 is removed, the opening 51 is opened.

[0066] The separator 81 can close the opening 51 by being attached to the opening 51, and can open the opening 51 by being detached from the opening 51. Thus, the separator 81 is a kind of a lid that can open and close the opening 51.

[0067] A hole 83 is formed in the center of the separator 81 so as to penetrate therethrough. When the flash dryer 1s is in a closed state, one longitudinal end of the first flow path 59A (the downstream end in the direction in which the mixed fluid flows) and one longitudinal end of the second flow path 59B (the upstream end in the direction in which the mixed fluid flows) are connected via the hole 83. The other longitudinal end of the first flow path 59A (the upstream end in the direction in which the mixed fluid flows) is connected to the first connection part 37. The other longitudinal end of the second flow path 59B (the downstream end in the direction in which the mixed fluid flows) is connected to the second connection part 39.

[0068] With the above configuration, when the flash dryer 1s is in an open state, the partitions 45 of the two containers 41 can be attached or detached while being positioned relative to the corresponding container 41. Therefore, the flash dryer 1s can be easily and thoroughly cleaned.

[0069] Furthermore, when the flash dryer 1s is in a closed state, the two containers 41 are stacked in two tiers, so that the separator 81 can be disposed between the two containers 41 to block the first flow path 59A and the second flow path 59B and then cause the mixed fluid to flow through these paths in sequence. That is, the mixed fluid supplied from the first connection part 37 can be made to flow through the first flow path 59A, the hole 83, and the second flow path 59B in this order, and then discharged from the second connection part 39.

[0070] As described above, in the flash dryer 1s of the present embodiment, two layers are formed, and in each layer, a flow path 59 through which the granular material and high-temperature gas flow is disposed. In each of the two layers, the flow path 59 is formed by the partition portion 45.

[0071] This makes it possible to improve the drying performance by lengthening the flow path 59 through which the mixed fluid flows while preventing the flash dryer 1s from becoming large. In addition, by removing the partition 45, thorough cleaning can be easily performed.

[0072] In the flash dryer 1s of the present embodiment, the partitions 45 of each layer are detachably attached to the two containers 41, respectively. However, at least one of the two partitions 45 may be detachably attached to a separator 81 that separates adjacent layers.

[0073] Again, rigorous cleaning can be easily accomplished.

[0074] In the flash dryer 1s of the present embodiment, the separator 81 is formed with a through hole 83 that connects the flow paths 59 of different layers to each other.

[0075] This makes it possible to obtain flow paths 59 across a plurality of layers with a simple structure.

[0076] Next, a third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 13 to Fig. 16. Fig. 13 is a side view of the flash dryer 1t according to this embodiment. Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line GG in Fig. 13. Fig. 15 is a plan view showing the flash dryer 1t in an open state. Fig. 16 is a side view showing the interior of the flash dryer 1t in an open state. In the description of this embodiment, the same or similar members as those in the previous embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals in the drawings, and descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0077] The flash dryer 1t differs from the flash dryer 1 according to the first embodiment in that it is configured as a three-layer type. In the flash dryer 1t, a third flow path 59C, a fourth flow path 59D, and a fifth flow path 59E are provided so as to be continuous in a triple-layered state as a flow path 59. This makes it possible to realize a flow path 59 that is longer than those in the first and second embodiments.

[0078] As shown in Fig. 13, the flash dryer 1t has a first connection part 37 and a second connection part 39. As shown in Fig. 14, 15, and 16, the flash dryer 1t includes two containers 41, an intermediate container (container) 91, three partition parts 45, three outer shell parts 47, a first isolator 81, and a second isolator 93.

[0079] In this embodiment, the two containers 41 are connected to each other by a hinge 95, and one can rotate relative to the other. The other container 41 can be moved to an open position or a closed position relative to the one container 41, similar to the lid body 43 of the first embodiment. When the other container 41 is moved to the closed position, an intermediate container 91 can be placed between the two containers 41. That is, the two containers 41 and the intermediate container 91 are stacked in three tiers.

[0080] The intermediate container 91 is connected to one container 41 by a hinge 96 and is rotatable relative to the container 41. The intermediate container 91 can be moved to an open position or a closed position.

[0081] When the other container 41 and the intermediate container 91 are moved to the open position, the flash dryer 1t is in the open state shown in Figures 15 and 16, and the internal space of each container 41 and the intermediate container 91 can be exposed to the outside. When the other container 41 and the intermediate container 91 are moved to the closed position, the flash dryer 1t is in the closed state shown in Figures 13 and 14, and the internal space of each container 41 can be sealed off.

[0082] The two containers 41 have substantially the same configuration, except for some parts. Specifically, a partition part 45 and an outer shell part 47 are arranged in one container 41 to form a third flow path 59C. A partition part 45 and an outer shell part 47 are arranged in the other container 41 to form a fifth flow path 59E. A first connection part 37 is provided on the outer periphery of one container 41 so as to protrude outward, and is connected to the third flow path 59C. A second connection part 39 is provided on the center part of the other container 41 so as to protrude outward, and is connected to the fifth flow path 59E.

[0083] In this embodiment, the intermediate container 91 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The diameter of the intermediate container 91 is approximately the same as the diameter of the container 41. The partition 45 and the outer shell 47 are arranged in the intermediate container 91 to form a fourth flow path 59D. The intermediate container 91 can have one opening 99 facing the opening 51 of the other container 41. A first separator 81 (corresponding to a lid) is detachably attached to the intermediate container 91 so as to close the other opening. The separator 45 is detachably attached to the separator 81. A third insulating layer 92 having a configuration similar to that of the first insulating layer 75 is formed on the outer periphery of the internal space of the intermediate container 91. In FIG. 15, the partition 45 removed from the first separator 81 is omitted.

[0084] As described above, the partition 45 and the outer shell 47 are disposed in the intermediate container 91 to form the fourth flow path 59D. When the flash dryer 1t is in a closed state, the downstream end of the third flow path 59C is connected to the upstream end of the fourth flow path 59D via the hole 83 in the direction in which the mixed fluid flows. A hole 97 is formed in the outer periphery of the second separator 93. The upstream end of the fifth flow path 59E is connected to the downstream end of the fourth flow path 59D via the hole 97.

[0085] The partition 45 that divides the internal space of the container 41 is detachably attached to the container 41. The partition 45 that divides the internal space of the intermediate container 91 is detachably attached to the first separator 81 or the second separator 93. The configuration for attaching the partition 45 to the container 41 or the like is arbitrary, and may be the same as that of the first embodiment, for example. In this embodiment, in one container 41, the partition 45 is configured separately from the outer shell 47. In each of the other container 41 and the intermediate container 91, the partition 45 is configured integrally with the outer shell 47. In the other container 41, the partition 45 can be detachably attached to the bottom (base portion 53) of the container 41 integrally with the outer shell 47. In the intermediate container 91, the partition 45 can be detachably attached to the first separator 81 or the second separator 93 integrally with the outer shell 47.

[0086] The second isolator 93 is configured substantially the same as the first isolator 81, except for some parts (the structure for attaching the partition 45 and the hole). The second isolator 93 is formed with a through hole 97.

[0087] With this configuration, when the flash dryer 1t is in an open state, the partitions 45 of the two containers 41 and the intermediate container 91 can be attached or detached while being positioned relative to the corresponding container 41 and intermediate container 91. This allows the flash dryer 1t to be cleaned easily and thoroughly.

[0088] When the flash dryer 1t is in a closed state, the two containers 41 and the intermediate container 91 are stacked in three layers. At this time, the intermediate container 91 is located between the two containers 41. In this state, the first separator 81 is disposed between one container 41 and the intermediate container 91, and the second separator 93 is disposed between the intermediate container 91 and the other container 41. Therefore, the third flow path 59C, the fourth flow path 59D, and the fifth flow path 59E are in a closed state, and the mixed fluid can be sequentially flowed through these flow paths. That is, the mixed fluid supplied from the first connection part 37 can be sequentially flowed through the third flow path 59C, the hole 83, the fourth flow path 59D, the hole 97, and the fifth flow path 59E, and discharged from the second connection part 39.

[0089] As described above, in the flash dryer 1t of the present embodiment, three layers are formed, and in each layer, a flow path 59 through which the granular material and high-temperature gas flow is disposed. In each of the three layers, the flow path 59 is formed by the partition portion 45.

[0090] This makes it possible to improve the drying performance by lengthening the flow path 59 through which the mixed fluid flows while preventing the flash dryer 1t from becoming large in size. In addition, by removing the partition 45, thorough cleaning can be easily performed.

[0091] Next, modified examples of the above-mentioned embodiment will be described. Here, modified examples of the first embodiment will be described, but similar configurations can be adopted for the second and third embodiments. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing the state inside an airflow dryer 1x according to a first modified example in an open state. FIG. 18(a) is a diagram showing the state inside an airflow dryer 1y according to a second modified example in an open state. FIG. 18(b) is a diagram showing the state inside an airflow dryer 1z according to a third modified example in an open state. In the description of this modified example, the same reference numerals are used in the drawings to refer to members that are the same as or similar to those in the above-mentioned embodiment, and descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0092] 17, in the flash dryer 1x according to the first modified example, the container 41 is cylindrical having an opening 51 and a bottom (base portion 53), and is formed into an elliptical shape when viewed in the axial direction of the container 41. The lid 43 is formed into a shape corresponding to the container 41. The partition portion 45 is formed into a spiral shape having a straight portion 101 and a curved portion 103 so as to follow the elliptical shape of the container 41. This makes it possible to ensure a flow path 59 of an appropriate length in the container 41.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 18(a), in the flash dryer 1y according to the second modification, the container 41 is cylindrical having an opening 51 and a bottom (base portion 53), and is formed in a substantially rectangular shape when viewed in the axial direction of the container 41. The lid 43 is formed in a shape corresponding to the container 41. The partition portion 45 is formed in a substantially rectangular spiral shape so as to follow the substantially rectangular shape of the container 41. Specifically, the partition portion 45 is formed in a spiral shape having a straight portion 107 and a corner portion 109. In the partition portion 45, the straight portions 107 extending in different directions are continuously provided, and the corner portion 109 is provided between two continuous straight portions 107. This makes it possible to ensure a flow path 59 of an appropriate length in the container 41. Although not shown in FIG. 18(a), it is preferable to round the corner portion 109 so as not to provide excessive resistance to the flow of the mixed fluid.

[0094] As shown in FIG. 18(b), in the flash dryer 1z according to the third modification, the container is cylindrical with an opening and a bottom, and is formed into a substantially rectangular shape when viewed in the axial direction of the container 41. The lid 43 is formed into a shape corresponding to the container 41. The partition 45 has a straight portion 111. The straight portion 111 is provided so as to extend in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the container 41. The partition 45 uses the straight portion 111 to form a flow path 59 having a shape that allows the mixed fluid to flow in alternately opposite directions. One end of the flow path 59 in the longitudinal direction (the end on the upstream side in the direction in which the mixed fluid flows) is connected to the first connection portion 37 provided on the outer periphery of the container 41. The other end of the flow path 59 in the longitudinal direction (the end on the downstream side in the direction in which the mixed fluid flows) is connected to the second connection portion 39 provided on the outer periphery of the container 41. This makes it possible to ensure a flow path 59 of an appropriate length in the container 41.

[0095] The preferred embodiment and modifications of the present invention have been described above, but the above configurations can be modified, for example, as follows.

[0096] In the above embodiment, the first connection part 37 functions as an inlet for the mixed fluid into the flow path 59, and the second connection part 39 functions as an outlet of the flow path 59. However, the second connection part 39 may function as an inlet of the flow path 59, and the first connection part 37 may function as an outlet of the flow path 59.

[0097] Any configuration may be used for detachably attaching the partition 45 to the container 41. For example, it may be possible to arrange the elongated protrusions alternately on one side, the other side, one side, ... in the thickness direction of the partition 45 while forming appropriate intervals along the path of the partition 45. The number and positions of the protrusions such as the second protrusion 67 and the third protrusion 69 may also be determined arbitrarily.

[0098] The partition 45 may be detachably attached to the lid 43 instead of the container 41. The configuration for detachably attaching the partition 45 to the lid 43 is not particularly limited, but may be the same as the configuration of the above embodiment, for example.

[0099] The shape of the flow path 59 formed by the partition portion 45 is not particularly limited.

[0100] In the second embodiment, a first insulating layer 75 can be provided on the outer periphery of at least one of the two containers 41.

[0101] In the second embodiment, a second insulating layer 77 may be provided on the outer periphery of at least one of the two containers 41.

[0102] In the third embodiment, the partition portion 45 for forming the fourth flow path 59D may be detachably attached to the second separator 93 instead of the first separator 81.

[0103] In the third embodiment, the first insulating layer 75 or the third insulating layer 92 can be provided on the outer periphery of at least one of the two containers 41 and the intermediate container 91.

[0104] In the third embodiment, a second insulating layer 77 may be provided on the outer periphery of at least one of the two containers 41.

[0105] In the second embodiment, the separator 81 may be hinged to the container 41. In the third embodiment, at least one of the first separator 81 and the second separator 93 may be hinged to the container 41 or the intermediate container 91.

[0106] The flash dryer of each embodiment may be used in any orientation. For example, it may be used horizontally as shown in FIG. 3, or it may be used vertically.

[0107] Flash dryers may be used, for example, for drying food products.

[0108] Obviously many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings, and it is therefore to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 1,1s,1t Flash Dryer 41 Container 43 Lid 45 Partition 51 Opening 59 Flow Path 81 Isolation body, first isolation body (lid body, inner lid body) 83 Hole 91 Intermediate containers (containers) 93 Isolation body, second isolation body (lid body, inner lid body) 97 Hole

Claims

1. In an air current dryer in which a workpiece is circulated together with a drying gas to dry the workpiece, a container having an opening for exposing an internal space to the outside, the container allowing the object to be treated and the drying gas to circulate in the internal space; A cover provided so as to be able to open and close the opening; a partition portion disposed within the container and partitioning an internal space of the container so as to form a flow path through which the object to be treated and the drying gas flow; Equipped with The partition is detachable from both the container and the lid.

2. The flash dryer according to claim 1, A flash dryer comprising: a heat insulating section provided to cover the outside of the flow path.

3. The flash dryer according to claim 2, The air flow dryer according to claim 1, wherein the heat insulating section is disposed on the outer side of the flow path in a direction perpendicular to the opening direction of the opening.

4. The flash dryer according to claim 2 or 3, The said heat insulating part is arranged on the outside with respect to the said flow path in a direction parallel to the opening direction of the said opening part.

5. The flash dryer according to any one of claims 1 to 4, A plurality of layers are formed in which the object to be treated and the flow passages through which the drying gas flows are arranged, A flash dryer, characterized in that in at least one of a plurality of layers, the flow path is formed by the partition portion.

6. The flash dryer according to claim 5, The flash dryer, wherein the lid is an internal lid that separates adjacent layers.

7. The flash dryer according to claim 6, The flash dryer according to claim 1, wherein the inner lid body is formed with a through hole portion that connects the flow paths of different layers to each other.

8. a container having an opening for exposing an internal space to the outside, the container allowing the object to be treated and the drying gas to flow through the internal space; A cover provided so as to be able to open and close the opening; a partition portion disposed within the container and partitioning an internal space of the container so as to form a flow path through which the object to be treated and the drying gas flow; A cleaning method for cleaning an air flow dryer that dries an object to be treated by circulating the object together with a drying gas, comprising: a first step of removing the partition from both the container and the lid; a second step of cleaning at least one of the container and the lid after the first step; A cleaning method comprising:

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